The Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity at Clemson University has been placed on disciplinary probation in response to a gang-themed party in December, according to Clemson University spokeswoman Cathy Sams.

Related Content

The probation, which is in place until Feb. 10, 2017, comes after an administrative conference was held with the fraternity and the Office of Community and Ethical Standards.

According to Sams, the probation stems from a party held on Dec. 7, 2014 in which the fraternity was found in violation of the following regulations by the Office of Community and Ethical Standards: alcohol, failure to comply with official request, and student organizational conduct.

Several students sent pictures of the party to WYFFNews 4 through social media which showed people wearing gang attire.

The gathering led to the suspension of fraternity officers and a student agreement to end theme based parties in the future.

According to a statement from the university in the days following the party, the "inappropriate theme party" was organized by several of the fraternity's members at a private, off-campus home.

Most of the fraternity chapter's officers resigned from their positions or were suspended from the organization, according to the statement.

The fraternity must also be required to complete a risk management program by April 30 that will include education in the following areas: alcohol, social justice and gang.

Clemson president Jim Clements released the following statement to students through a Clemson website in the days following the party:

At a time of year when our thoughts are turning to family, holidays and the start of a new year – all the things that unite us and bring us joy — it is discouraging that so many events and issues are causing division and hurt, and making many students feel unwanted at this great university. It hurts to read disrespectful and just plain mean comments in social media. Last night’s “Cripmas” party, which the university did not sanction, raised more concerns about the campus climate. Clemson is better than this. Everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion about events in Ferguson, Staten Island and the protest rallies that those events have spawned. Great universities are built on the free expression and exploration of ideas. But the free expression of opinion must not cross the line and become harassment or intimidation, just as rallies and protest marches must not cross the line to lawlessness.Our core values – honesty, integrity and respect – must be more than just words. I plan to host a series of events in early 2015 to foster productive discussion and unity that includes a broad segment of the campus – and I hope that I can count on your active participation. In the meantime, please be supportive of each other during this busy and sometimes stressful season.